Chop Wood, Carry Water

So it has been well over a month since my last post.  I moved and for a greater portion of that time I didn't have internet access.  I moved to a property owned by Ryumonji Zen Monastery.  Since my move, I have come to realize many great things about life.

Less is a luxury.  I don't have a whole lot where I live right now, and I love it.  I just have my "staples" and my practice (both Buddhism and martial arts).  I read, work out, practice, sit zazen, and write.  Nothing could be better to me.  I've also had a lot of time to work/practice on my calligraphy which is also nice.

I chop wood, carry wood and water.  It reminds me of the Zen proverb, "Before enlightenment, chop wood, carry water.  After enlightenment, chop wood, carry water."  In a sense, I have come to appreciate this proverb.  Work is life, life is work.  When appreciated, both are beautiful.

I've also been reading a lot of Dogen's writings, which has inspired me to compose little poems.  I think that's a side-affect of reading Dogen, haha.

I will be posting more often now that I have the internet.  Hope you are all well, many blessings, in gassho.

Where I live: